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Meatballs are a beloved staple in various cuisines around the world, from Italian spaghetti and meatballs to Swedish köttbullar, each culture has its own unique take on this comforting dish. They are versatile, easy to prepare, and can be enjoyed in countless ways—whether served in a hearty sauce, placed atop a bed of pasta, or sandwiched in a sub. Among the myriad of meatball recipes, cheesy baked mozzarella-stuffed meatballs stand out, offering a delightful twist that elevates the traditional concept. This recipe has become a family favorite, providing a gooey, cheesy surprise that kids and adults alike can't resist.

Baked Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs

Discover the ultimate comfort food with cheesy baked mozzarella-stuffed meatballs! This delightful twist on a classic dish features juicy meatballs filled with gooey mozzarella cheese, creating a burst of flavor in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, these meatballs are easy to prepare and sure to impress. Pair them with pasta and marinara sauce for a hearty meal that the whole family will love. Enjoy creating memorable moments around the dinner table with this delicious recipe!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for optimal juiciness)

1 pound ground pork (adds flavor and moisture)

1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs (for added flavor)

1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (enhances rich flavor)

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for freshness and color)

2 cloves garlic, minced (adds depth of flavor)

1 large egg (binds the mixture together)

1 teaspoon salt (to taste)

1/2 teaspoon black pepper (for mild heat)

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (a blend of herbs for authenticity)

8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes (for the cheesy surprise)

2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought for convenience)

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional, for a touch of freshness)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

    Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound each of ground beef and ground pork. Add the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Use your hands to mix the ingredients until they are well integrated, being careful not to overwork the meat, which could make the meatballs tough.

      Stuff the Meatballs: Take a portion of the meat mixture, about 1.5 ounces (roughly the size of a golf ball), and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center, then fold the meat around it, rolling it into a smooth ball shape to encase the cheese completely. Repeat this process until all the meat mixture has been formed into meatballs.

        Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the stuffed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced about an inch apart for even cooking.

          Bake the Meatballs: Insert the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are thoroughly cooked and have developed a beautiful golden-brown color.

            Heat the Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, pour the marinara sauce into a large skillet. Heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it is warmed through and bubbling lightly.

              Combine and Serve: Once the meatballs are done baking, gently lift them off the baking sheet and transfer them to the simmering marinara sauce. Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for about 5 minutes, letting them absorb the delicious flavors.

                Garnish and Enjoy: Serve the cheesy meatballs hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired. They pair wonderfully with spaghetti, can be enjoyed alongside garlic bread, or served as a crowd-pleasing appetizer with toothpicks for easy sharing!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 40 minutes | 4-6 servings